What to watch for on Monday, the opening day of the DNC – Washington Examiner

Christian DatocAugust 19, 2024

1 45

The summary details the opening day of the 2024 Democratic National Convention ‍(DNC) occurring in Chicago. President Joe Biden is set to deliver the keynote address at the United Center, but a significant focus will be on pro-Gaza protests, with at least six groups organizing demonstrations, expecting a turnout of around 20,000 participants. Counterprotests by pro-Israel groups are also anticipated, although they have faced challenges in obtaining protest permits. The convention will feature state delegation breakfasts ⁣and‌ caucus meetings, providing press access‌ to lawmakers and party officials. Biden’s speech⁣ is expected to emphasize the theme ⁤”For the People,” showcasing Democratic achievements and contrasting them with former President Donald Trump’s approach. The ⁢day’s events will include various morning activities,⁣ including protests, state breakfasts, and caucus meetings.

What to watch for on Monday, the opening day of the DNC

CHICAGO, Illinois — Monday formally kicks off the 2024 Democratic National Convention in Chicago.

While President Joe Biden might be delivering the DNC’s keynote address inside the United Center Monday night, flocks of pro-Gaza protesters are expected to steal many of the headlines.

At least six pro-Gaza groups are planning demonstrations ahead of Vice President Kamala Harris‘s nomination acceptance on Thursday, with the largest group, Coalition to March on the DNC, holding protest parades toward the convention itself on both Monday and Thursday.

Organizers are bussing in protesters from states all across the country and say they expect to have at least 20,000 in attendance.

A number of pro-Israel groups are planning counterprotests throughout the week but have been reportedly stonewalled in securing official protest permits from the city government.

A number of state delegations will also host their first breakfasts of the week, and the Democratic National Committee caucuses will similarly hold their first meetings of the convention. Both events give press access to lawmakers, party officials, and strategists for on the record and background interviews.

Biden’s speech will highlight the opening theme of the week, “For the People,” and will follow remarks from First Lady Jill Biden and former Secretary of State and 2016 Democratic presidential nominee Hillary Clinton.

“While Donald Trump puts himself first, Democrats are fighting for the American people. President Biden has exemplified this through his leadership and legacy as a historic president who put the American people’s interest above his own,” DNC officials said ahead of Biden’s remarks. “The accomplishments and results President Biden delivered for people, with Vice President Harris by his side, will be on full display during the convention, as will Kamala Harris’s commitment to fighting on behalf of everyday Americans. At its core, the Harris-Walz ticket is a ticket for the people.”

Here’s a list of everything to watch for on Monday: